Government Extends Free Yellow Peas Imports, Imposes 11% Duty on Lentils

The Indian government has extended the duty-free import regime for yellow peas until May 31, 2025, while imposing a total 11% import duty on lentils (masoor). The duty on lentils includes a 5% basic customs duty, 5% Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess, and 1% Social Welfare Surcharge, as per the extraordinary gazette notification issued on Friday.

Current Market Scenario: Pulses and Lentils

The chana crop is expected to perform well this season, with farmers planting chana over 9.85 million hectares, up from 9.58 million hectares last year. The overall rabi pulses acreage also increased to 14.09 million hectares, compared to 13.78 million hectares previously. The masoor (lentils) area remained flat at 1.74 million hectares.

• Chana Prices: Ranging from USD 0,64-0,73 per kg, depending on quality and variety.
• Chana MSP: USD 0,68 per kg for the 2025-26 marketing season.
• Lentils Prices: Local market prices are USD 0,71-0,73 per kg, below the MSP of USD 0,81 per kg.

Import Data: Yellow Peas and Lentils

India initially opened yellow peas imports in December 2023 to stabilize supply and control prices. The policy, set to expire on February 28, 2025, has now been extended until the end of May. The total yellow peas imports exceeded 3.21 million tonnes, with Canada being the largest supplier.

Concerns Over Yellow Peas Policy

Trade experts believe the duty-free imports of yellow peas might impact the chana market and disrupt pulses pricing. With the chana crop looking promising, the IPGA urged the government to reconsider the yellow peas import policy to avoid market imbalances.